Photos by Dale Smith / Hampton Inn developer David Swentor gestures as CRA Director Tony Otte stands by his side in explaining the timing of a special designation that could generate additional funding, even before the hotel has secured its primary funding at Tuesday night's New Smyrna Beach City Commission meeting. Mayor Adam Barringer, shown at far left, supported the request, but Commissioner Jim Hathaway, seated next to him, did not.

Editor's note: The following story was submitted by contributing writer Dale Smith:

NEW SMYRNA BEACH – The City Commission tonight approved a resolution allowing the developer of the proposed Hampton Inn & Suites on Flagler Avenue to be designated as a Qualified Target Industry Business.

Downtown/Canal Street

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NSBNews.Net file photo by Dale Smith who contributed to this breaking news story / Circuit Judge Richard Graham rejects the merger between Bert Fish and the Adventist Health Systems.We have complete coverage include the judge's ruling, which can be read by clicking the attachment as well as a series of exclusive videos throughout the merger process and through the courts.

DAYTONA BEACH -- Circuit Judge Richard Graham's verdict today in the civil trial that essentially nullifies the May 27 merger against the Bert Fish Medical Center merger with Adventists Health Systems is being hailed by the Bert Fish Foundation attorneys as a victory not only for government action in the sunshine, but also as a long-term savings to Southeast Volusia taxpayers who are already the highest taxed in Florida.

NSB News InDepth

Dr. Bill Epps, age 83, of New Smyrna Beach, died Sunday at Hospice Care Center, Port Orange. Born in Sanford, Dr. Epps was a graduate of Georgia Military Academy, Stetson University, and Emory University Dental School. He practiced dentistry in both Sanford and Edgewater.